Callicarpa bodinieri
What's the taxonomical classification of Callicarpa bodinieri?
Callicarpa bodinieri belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta. Within the class Equisetopsida and the subclass Magnoliidae, it is organized under the order Lamiales and the family Lamiaceae. This specific plant is further categorized into the genus Callicarpa, ultimately reaching its unique designation at the species level as bodinieri.
| Taxonomic Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Callicarpa |
| Species | bodinieri |
What are the morphological characteristics of this plant?
Callicarpa bodinieri has opposite, simple leaves that are ovate to elliptic in shape with serrated margins and an acute apex. The leaf surfaces are typically pubescent, providing a soft texture to the foliage. Its woody stems support small, axillary clusters of flowers that eventually develop into distinct drupes. These small, spherical fruits are notable for their vibrant color and clustered arrangement along the branches. The overall structure of the plant is characterized by its shrubby growth habit and multi-stemmed form.
What is the geographical distribution of this plant?
This plant is endemic to the temperate forests of Japan, specifically occurring within the islands of Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu. It typically occupies montane regions where the climate is sufficiently moist and cool. Within these mountainous habitats, it thrives in shaded areas such as forest edges and understory thickets. The species is most commonly found at moderate elevations where well-drained soil is available. Its range is restricted to these specific East Asian ecological zones.
How is this plant cultivated?
This plant requires well-drained, moist, acidic soil and a location with partial shade to thrive in temperate garden settings.
It prefers consistent moisture levels but must avoid standing water to prevent root rot. When planting, ensure the site offers protection from harsh, drying winds that can damage the foliage. Regular mulching helps maintain the necessary soil humidity and temperature stability throughout the growing season.
Once established, the shrub is relatively low-maintenance and provides ornamental value through its unique berry clusters.
What parts of this plant are used medicinally?
This plant Callicarpa bodinieri provides medicinal value through its leaves, fruits, and twigs. The leaves are often processed into decoctions to treat various ailments or applied topically for their healing properties. Small fruits harvested from the branches serve as key components in traditional remedies. Additionally, the twigs are utilized in preparations to address specific health concerns. These distinct parts work together to provide a versatile range of therapeutic applications.
According to a study published by "Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica", the leaves of Callicarpa bodinieri were studied to identify its constituents. Through chromatography, 7 compounds were isolated and elucidated from this plant. These identified substances include 5-hydroxy-4',3,6,7-tetramethoxy flavone (I), luteolin-7-O-glucoside (II), chrysoeriol-4'-O-glucoside (III), luteolin-4'-O-glucoside (IV), beta-sitosterol (V), ursolic acid (VI), and betulinic acid (VII). All 7 of these compounds were isolated from this plant for the first time. Additionally, compounds I, III, and IV were isolated from the Callicarpa genus for the first time.
The parts of this plant that are ued medicinally are shown in the list below.
- leaves
- fruit
- twigs
What traditional systems uses this plant?
This plant, Callicarpa bodinieani, is utilized within Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat various ailments through its medicinal properties. Historically, practitioners have employed its leaves and stems to address conditions such as inflammation and skin irritations. The plant is often integrated into regional herbal formulas designed to clear heat and resolve toxins from the body. Its chemical constituents play a significant role in how various cultures have applied it for therapeutic purposes over many generations. These historical applications highlight the plant's importance in local ethnobotanical practices.
According to a study published by "Journal of natural products", species belonging to the genus Callicarpa are used traditionally in Chinese medicine for the treatment of inflammation, rheumatism, and pain. Investigation of the leaves and twigs of Callicarpa bodinieri resulted in the isolation of nine new abietane diterpenoids, bodinieric acids A-I (1-9), along with six known compounds (10-15). The inhibitory activities of these isolates were determined against 13 kinase enzymes to explore therapeutic potential. Eight compounds exhibited moderate inhibitory effects on spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK). Specifically, the IC50 values of compounds 2 and 6 were 7.2 and 10.7 μM, respectively.
The hystorical systems that uses this plant are shown in the list below.
- Traditional Chinese Medicine
What are the pharmacological activities of Callicarpa bodinieri?
This plant has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic, antioxidant, and antioxidative pharmacological activities. These biological properties suggest that the species can be utilized for managing pain and reducing systemic inflammation. Its anti-rheumatic potential makes it a candidate for treating chronic joint conditions and related disorders. Furthermore, the presence of potent antioxidant and antioxidative mechanisms helps protect cells from oxidative stress and damage. These diverse medicinal qualities highlight the therapeutic value of Callicarpa bodinieeri in traditional and modern pharmacology.
According to a study published by "Journal of natural products", investigation of the leaves and twigs of Callicarpa bodinieri resulted in the isolation of nine new abietane diterpenoids, bodinieric acids A-I (1-9), alongside six known compounds (10-15). To explore potential therapeutic targets for immune-mediated disease, the inhibitory activities of the isolates were determined against 13 kinase enzymes. Eight compounds exhibited moderate inhibitory effects on spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK). Specifically, the IC50 values of compounds 2 and 6 were 7.2 and 10.7 μM, respectively.
The primary pharmacological activities of this plant are shown in the list below.
- analgesic
- anti-inflammatory
- anti-rheumatic
- antioxidant
- antioxidative
What medicinal compounds this plant contains?
This plant contains the unique medicinal compounds bodinieric acids A-I, beta-sitosterol, betulinic acid, ursolic acid, and chrysoeriol-4'-O-glucosides. These specific chemical constituents contribute to the diverse pharmacological potential found within the species. The presence of triterpenoids like betulinic and ursolic acid is particularly significant for their biological activities. Additionally, the specialized bodinieric acids serve as distinctive markers for this particular plant variety. These various phytochemicals collectively define the therapeutic profile of Callicarpa bodinieri.
According to a study published by "Journal of natural products", investigation of the leaves and twigs of Callicarpa bodinieri resulted in the isolation of nine new abietane diterpenoids, bodinieric acids A-I (1-9), along with six known compounds (10-15). The inhibitory activities of these isolates were determined against 13 kinase enzymes to explore therapeutic potential for immune-mediated disease. Eight compounds exhibited moderate inhibitory effects on spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK). Specifically, the IC50 values of compounds 2 and 6 were 7.2 and 10.7 μM, respectively.
The primary medicinal compounds of this plant are shown in the list below.
- bodinieric acids A-I
- beta-sitosterol
- betulinic acid
- ursolic acid
- luteolins
What health conditions is this plant used for?
This plant is used for treating inflammation, pain, rheumatism, immune-mediated disease, and hemolysis. Its medicinal properties are often applied to soothe physical discomfort and reduce swelling in affected tissues. Practitioners utilize its components to manage the chronic symptoms associated with rheumatism and various forms of bodily pain. Additionally, the plant holds potential in addressing complex issues like immune-mediated disease and the breakdown of red blood cells during hemolysis. These therapeutic applications demonstrate the plant's diverse role in traditional medical practices.
According to a study published by "Journal of natural products", Callicarpa bodinieri is used traditionally in Chinese medicine for the treatment of inflammation, rheumatism, and pain. Investigation of the leaves and twigs of this plant resulted in the isolation of 9 new abietane diterpenoids, known as bodinieric acids A-I (1-9), along with 6 known compounds (10-15). To explore potential therapeutic targets for immune-mediated disease, inhibitory activities were determined against 13 kinase enzymes. Eight compounds exhibited moderate inhibitory effects on spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK). Specifically, the IC50 values of compounds 2 and 6 were 7.2 and 10.7 μM, respectively.
The main health conditions this plant is used for are shown in the list below.
- inflammation
- pain
- rheumatism
- immune-mediated disease
- hemolysis
What are the herbal preparations of this plant?
This plant is used to create decoctions and topical poultices that target inflammation and skin irritations.
The leaves and stems are typically harvested and dried before being processed into medicinal forms. These preparations often utilize the plant's phytochemical properties to soothe localized swelling or discomfort. Practitioners may also infuse the botanical matter into oils for long-term dermatological use.
Such traditional applications rely on the specific chemical constituents found within the foliage.
What side effects this plant can have?
This plant can cause skin irritation, digestive upset, and allergic reactions in certain individuals. Contact with the leaves or stems may lead to localized dermatitis or redness on the skin. If ingested accidentally, people might experience nausea, stomach pain, or vomiting. Some sensitive users might also develop symptoms of an allergic response such as itching or swelling. It is important to handle the plant with caution to avoid these adverse health effects.
The main side effects this plant can have are shown in the list below.
What herbs are paired with Callicarpa bodinieri?
This plant pairs most effectively with aromatic herbs like lemon balm, mint, and sage due to its subtle, woody undertones.
The brightness of lemon balm helps to accentuate the delicate floral notes often found in the foliage. Mint provides a refreshing contrast that prevents the earthy qualities of the plant from becoming too heavy. Additionally, the savory profile of sage creates a grounded culinary balance when these ingredients are used together in infusions.
These combinations work well to highlight the unique structural flavors of the species.